VISITING ANGELS APPLETON, WI 920-944-8000
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Reduce Your Chances of Influenza

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate between 9 million and 45 million influenza-related illnesses occur each year, depending on the flu season's severity. Most cases are reported in fall and winter but can extend well into May. It's hard to predict what each flu season will bring, but one way to limit the flu spread each year is by understanding what the flu is and taking precautions to reduce your risk of getting sick.

What is Influenza?

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory condition. It's caused by influenza viruses and spreads when an infected person transmits tiny droplets of the viruses to another person by sneezing, coughing, or talking. The flu can spread from an infected person to an object, then to another person, but it's unlikely.

Signs and Symptoms

Flu symptoms closely resemble those of a common cold but tend to be more intense and last longer. Common symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, congestion, muscle aches, and fatigue. In mild cases, many people recover with over-the-counter medications. However, those with more severe cases should seek medical attention as the flu can be life-threatening. If a severe case of the flu is left untreated, it can cause bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, congestive heart failure, and asthma.

Anyone can get the flu and develop complications regardless of age, although those 65 and older have a higher risk of complications. Those who have asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are also more like to develop flu-related complications. If you have trouble breathing, chest pains, dizziness, seizures, or severe muscle pain, seek immediate medical attention.

Preventing Influenza

Everyone is susceptible to the flu, but there are precautions you can take to reduce your risk.

  • Get a flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest everyone get a flu vaccine to limit the virus's spread. There are different vaccines available for each age group. Doctors advise those 65 years and older to get the adjuvanted and high-dose inactivated vaccines. Most vaccines can be given at your doctor's office or a walk-in clinic. To find the nearest vaccination center near you, use the CDC vaccine finder. If you have life-threatening allergies to gelatin, antibiotics, or eggs, talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands. Keeping your hands clean with soap and water protects you from harmful germs and bacteria. Wash your hands after spending time in public places, especially during the fall and winter months. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Stay away from people who are sick. If you know someone with the flu, don't come into contact with them until the virus has passed. People are most contagious the first four days of the illness but can spread the virus even after symptoms stop. If you become infected with the flu, stay home to avoid infecting others.
  • Disinfect your home. Keep your home safe by routinely disinfecting surfaces you touch most often, such as counters, doorknobs, and light switches. Don't forget the handles on cabinets, refrigerators, and microwaves.
  • Avoid touching your face. Germs can infect your body most easily by entering through your eyes, nose, or mouth. When in public places, avoid touching your face after touching surfaces many others have touched.

How Visiting Angels Can Help

If you or a loved one comes down with the flu this season and needs assistance with transportation to the doctor or medication reminders, the team at Visiting Angels Appleton can help. Our compassionate caregivers can also do laundry, prepare meals, and help disinfect your home. Our Appleton office serves those in Outagamie county. If you'd like to learn more about our services, you can schedule a free consultation by calling 920.944.8000.

Serving Outagamie County

Visiting Angels APPLETON, WI
17 Park Place #150
Appleton, WI 54914
Phone: 920-944-8000
Fax: 920-328-0324

Serving Outagamie County

Visiting Angels APPLETON, WI
17 Park Place #150
Appleton, WI 54914
Phone: 920-944-8000
Fax: 920-328-0324